In preparation for the upcoming 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana, there’s a critical need for political parties to focus on educating their voters about effectively managing their ballot papers. Mussa Dankwah, Executive Director of Global Info Analytics, emphasized on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show that understanding how to correctly use their thumbs on the ballot paper is essential to minimize rejected ballots, which often detract from valid votes.
He argued that the emphasis on the candidates’ positions and the significance of their associated numbers should be secondary to the educational effort on voting procedures. The symbols and images of candidates are crucial in guiding voters’ decisions, making it vital to demystify the voting process to prevent confusion and errors on election day.
Dankwah pointed out that election officers can play a significant role in assisting voters who face challenges, and proactive education on what to expect and do on election day is essential to reduce the high rates of spoiled ballots. He expressed concern that many believe Ghanaians are uninformed about the voting process, suggesting that better support and resources are necessary on election day.
In other news, the Electoral Commission recently finalized the positions of candidates on the ballot paper for the December 7 elections. The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) will appear first, with Mahamudu Bawumia leading at number one, while John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will be in the eighth position. The complete list of candidates includes:
Mahamudu Bawumia – NPP
Daniel Augustus Lartey Inr – GCPP
Akua Donkor – Ghana Freedom Party
Christian Kwabena Andrews – GUM
Kofi Akpaloo – Liberal Party of Ghana
Mohammed Frimpong – National Democratic Party
Nana Akosua Frimpomaa – CPP
John Dramani Mahama – NDC
Hassan Abdulai Ayariga – All People’s Congress
Kofi Koranteng – Independent Candidate
George Twum-Barima-Adu – Independent Candidate
Nana Kwame Bediako – Independent Candidate
Alan John Kyerematen – Independent Candidate
With 13 candidates now officially approved, the electoral landscape is set for a diverse range of political choices. Voter education will be crucial in ensuring a smooth and effective election process.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
